Waving the Flag for English Wines.

The World Cup is just round the corner but if you fancy a bit of pre tournament flag waving then come on and do this for English Wines. The English Wine Producers (EWA) tasting yesterday had a real buzz, with lots of fresh and attractive wines. Apart from some impressive sparklers and roses, there are in Bacchus and Ortega a couple of varieties that English Producers are really promoting. There will be more recommendations in the next few weeks, however in the meantime try the sparkling Balfour Brut Rose, 2006, £34.99. Stockist: Harvey Nichols and Hushheath. Made from Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier this dry impressive bubbly has lovely balance,soft red fruits and good structure. Denbies Ortega, 2006, £11.99, is a quality white with a ripe fruity finish and subtle acidity. Go to the Denbies online shop www.denbiesvineyard.co.uk/shop/ Three Choirs Vineyards Cellar Door Bacchus 2009, £10.50 is a delicious dry aromatic and well made refreshing white. Three Choirs shop www.three-choirs-shop.co.uk/. Chapel Down are on the ball with their wines and Chapel Down English Rose, 2009,£9.99.Stockist Waitrose is a serious dry pink, with strawberry fruit and an accessible spicy character which makes this wine an ideal food match with Thai dishes. For those of you who love a gentle, soft fruity red with no edges then the Biddenden Gamay 2009, £7.85 is your summer wine.Biddenden shop www.biddendenvineyards.com.Come on England!